Minami-ku, Administrative ward in southern Kyoto, Japan
Minami-ku is an administrative ward in southern Kyoto situated between the Kamo River and Katsura River, stretching from Hachijo Street in the north to the Meishin Expressway in the south. The area encompasses several historical temples and serves today as an economic center with major corporate headquarters.
The ward was established in 1955 through separation from Shimogyo-ku, marking a significant change in Kyoto's administrative structure. This reorganization reshaped the city's southern areas under independent governance.
The district contains To-ji Temple and stands at the former location of Rashomon gate, which gained international recognition through Akira Kurosawa's film. These places are deeply tied to Kyoto's cultural memory and draw visitors interested in the city's artistic past.
The area is easily accessible by public transportation and offers a good mix of historical sites and modern facilities. Visitors should allow adequate time to explore temples and museums depending on the season.
The area is the only section of Kyoto not surrounded by mountains, making it historically a natural gateway into the city. This geographical feature has shaped the region's role as a transportation hub for centuries.
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